Information and Record Clerks earn $43,870 median — what the salary data really says
The median annual salary for Information and Record Clerks is $43,870, according to the latest BLS estimates. That works out to roughly $21 per hour, or a mean wage of $45,860. But the range is wide: the lowest 10% earn about $31,010, while the top 10% pull in $63,480. With over 5 million people employed in these roles — the BLS count is 5,081,880 — this is one of the largest clerical fields in the U.S.
How much Information and Record Clerks earn
Information and Record Clerks span many job titles — file clerks, medical records specialists, correspondence clerks, and more. That variety explains the pay spread. The typical worker in the middle of the pack takes home $43,870 a year. Half earn more, half less.
- 10th percentile: $31,010
- Median: $43,870
- Mean: $45,860
- 90th percentile: $63,480
Pay by state
BLS data currently has no specific highest- or lowest-paying states for this broad occupation. However, pay typically follows cost-of-living and regional demand. For example, government and healthcare hubs tend to pay more. If you're considering a move, check state-level averages on BLS.gov for the most recent figures.
How to become Information and Record Clerk
Most entry-level positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is common, often lasting a few weeks to a few months. Some roles, especially in medical records or legal settings, may ask for a postsecondary certificate or associate degree. For medical records, certification through organizations like AHIMA can boost your resume. No state license is typically required.
- Earn high school diploma or GED
- Apply for entry-level clerk roles
- Complete on-the-job training (typically 1-3 months)
- Pursue optional certification for specialized fields like medical records
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for Information and Record Clerks between 2024 and 2034. That likely reflects the fact that demand varies sharply by specialty. Some roles, like medical records specialists, are expected to grow as the healthcare industry expands. Others, like file clerks, may shrink due to digitization. The 5-million-plus employment base means turnover alone creates steady openings.
Frequently asked questions
What do Information and Record Clerks do?
They organize, file, and maintain records — paper or electronic — for offices, hospitals, courts, and other organizations. Duties can include entering data, retrieving documents, and ensuring confidentiality.
Can you make a living as an Information and Record Clerk?
Yes. The median salary of $43,870 is close to the national median for all occupations ($48,060 in 2023). Top earners surpass $63,000, which is a solid middle-class income in most areas.
Which industries pay the most for this job?
Government (federal, state, local) and healthcare tend to pay above average. The BLS shows that employment services and administrative support often fall in the lower end of the range.
Is this a growing field?
Overall growth is flat or mixed depending on the specific role. Medical records specialists are in demand, while traditional filing roles are declining due to automation. Job openings will still arise from workers retiring or moving on.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Information and Record Clerks data.